Living with arthritis doesn’t mean you have to give up the sports you love. In fact, pickleball can be an excellent way to stay active, maintain joint mobility, and enjoy some social time with friends. However, the right equipment makes all the difference, especially for players with arthritis. When it comes to paddles, factors like weight, grip size, materials, and shock absorption become crucial to reducing joint strain and keeping you comfortable on the court.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the key considerations when selecting the best pickleball paddle for arthritis and recommend some top options to help you play your best without pain.
What to Look for in a Pickleball Paddle for Arthritis
Choosing the right paddle can make the game more enjoyable and reduce strain on your hands, wrists, and elbows. Here are the most important features to keep in mind:
1. Weight: Strike a Balance
Lightweight paddles (7-7.5 oz) are ideal for minimizing fatigue, as they require less effort to swing. They put less stress on the joints and muscles, making them a popular choice for players with arthritis.
Midweight paddles (7.6-8.3 oz) offer more power without being too heavy. If you need a bit more force behind your shots but still want to protect your joints, a midweight paddle might be the right balance.
Avoid heavy paddles (above 8.4 oz), as they can place unnecessary strain on the wrist and elbow during long matches.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure about weight, go for a paddle in the 7.5 to 8 oz range. You’ll get a blend of control and power without too much stress on your joints.
2. Grip Size: Fit for Comfort and Control
Having the right grip size reduces tension in your hand and wrist. If the grip is too small, you’ll have to squeeze harder, increasing the likelihood of discomfort or joint pain. If it’s too large, your hand will tire out faster.
Small grip size (4” – 4.25”) works well for players with smaller hands.
Standard grip size (4.5”) offers a comfortable fit for most adults.
Cushioned grips are excellent for arthritis, as they absorb shock and reduce vibration from the paddle.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure which grip size is best, opt for a smaller grip and add an overgrip for customization.
3. Shock Absorption: Protect Your Joints
Reducing vibrations is critical for arthritis sufferers. A paddle with good shock absorption minimizes the jolt that travels through your hand and arm with each shot.
Polymer cores are known for their excellent shock absorption. They deliver a softer feel and reduce the impact on your joints, making them a great choice for arthritis.
Composite paddles (made of fiberglass or carbon fiber) provide a balance of control and power while keeping vibrations low.
Avoid paddles with aluminum cores unless they have additional dampening technology, as they tend to transmit more vibrations.
4. Handle Length: Go for What Feels Natural
A paddle with a longer handle offers more reach and two-handed control, which can be helpful if arthritis affects one hand more than the other. However, longer handles may be less comfortable for players who prefer a lighter touch. Test out different handle lengths to see which feels best for your grip and playing style.
Top Picks: Best Pickleball Paddles for Arthritis
Below are some paddles that stand out for players with arthritis. They prioritize comfort, control, and shock absorption—so you can keep playing pain-free.
1. Selkirk Amped S2 Lightweight Pickleball Paddle
Weight: 7.2 – 7.4 oz
Core: Polymer
Surface: Fiberglass The Selkirk Amped S2 is perfect for players seeking comfort and control. With its lightweight design and large sweet spot, this paddle requires less effort to make solid contact, reducing strain on your hands and wrists. The polymer core helps dampen vibrations, and the cushioned grip ensures a comfortable hold throughout long games.
2. Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro
Weight: 7.6 – 8 oz
Core: Polymer honeycomb
Surface: Textured graphite The Tempest Wave Pro offers a great balance between power and control, making it ideal for arthritis sufferers who don’t want to sacrifice performance. The textured graphite face allows for precise shots, while the polymer core minimizes shock. Its ergonomic grip fits comfortably in the hand, reducing fatigue.
3. Onix Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle
Weight: 7.5 – 8.2 oz
Core: Nomex
Surface: Graphite The Onix Z5 is a midweight paddle with excellent control and responsiveness. Its graphite surface makes it easier to generate spin, while the cushioned grip reduces strain on your hands. Although the Nomex core isn’t as dampening as polymer, it still offers decent shock absorption, and the paddle’s slightly heavier weight helps reduce overuse of smaller muscles.
4. Engage Encore EX 6.0 Paddle
Weight: 7.5 – 8.1 oz
Core: ControlPro polymer core
Surface: Fiberglass Designed with arthritis players in mind, the Engage Encore EX 6.0 features a ControlPro polymer core for maximum shock absorption. This paddle also has a cushioned handle, which minimizes wrist strain, and the fiberglass face provides excellent control without needing too much power.
5. Gamma NeuCore Pickleball Paddle
Weight: 7.6 – 8 oz
Core: NeuCore polymer
Surface: Graphite Gamma’s NeuCore paddles are known for their soft feel and large cores, which reduce vibrations. This paddle’s slightly elongated handle is great for players who like to use both hands, and the cushioned grip provides added comfort. It’s an excellent choice if you want a versatile paddle that protects your joints during every match.
How to Maintain Joint Comfort While Playing
Beyond selecting the right paddle, there are additional ways to reduce joint pain and enhance comfort during pickleball matches.
Warm up properly: Gentle stretches for your hands, wrists, and elbows before playing can loosen up stiff joints.
Use overgrips: Overgrips add padding and can be replaced frequently to maintain the right feel.
Rest when needed: Take breaks between games to avoid overloading your joints.
Consider wearing compression gloves: Arthritis gloves can improve circulation and reduce stiffness during play.
Play with softer balls: Indoor balls or those made from softer plastic generate less impact, reducing joint stress.
Final Thoughts: Play Comfortably, Play Longer
Arthritis may limit some activities, but with the right paddle, pickleball doesn’t have to be one of them. Lightweight paddles with cushioned grips and polymer cores will go a long way in minimizing joint pain and keeping you on the court. Focus on finding a paddle that feels natural in your hand, absorbs shock, and provides enough control without excessive force.
The goal is to enjoy the game while protecting your joints—so don’t be afraid to try different options until you find the perfect paddle for your needs. With the right equipment, pickleball can remain a joyful, low-impact way to stay active and healthy, no matter what challenges arthritis throws your way.
See you on the court, and here’s to pain-free play!